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EC calls for public holiday on Dec 1 for Local By-Elections

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Kathmandu: Election Commission (EC) has requested local governments to declare a public holiday on December 1, for the upcoming local by-elections.

In a statement, the EC urged relevant municipalities to ensure that voting stations are set up and accessible for the elections. The Commission has requested the use of various public and private venues, including community schools, private schools, ward offices, healthcare institutions, community halls, industrial establishments, and other public spaces, for election purposes. This request was made through the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration to all municipalities where by-elections are scheduled.

A meeting of the Election Commission held yesterday emphasized the importance of conducting the by-elections in a clean, free, fair, reliable, and cost-effective manner. It also called for the use of designated voting locations and the declaration of public holidays to facilitate the voting process.

To ensure voter participation, the EC has asked local governments and private institutions—including industrial, educational, and other establishments—to adopt measures that make it easier for voters to cast their ballots. These measures include offering leave for employees or arranging alternative voting facilities.

Additionally, the Election Commission has directed election officials to allow voters to cast their ballots using not only voter identity cards but also other government-issued documents. Voters will be able to vote based on a match between their official identification documents—such as national citizenship cards, passports, permanent account numbers (PAN), or driver’s licenses—and the final voter list.

The Commission has instructed Chief Election Officers and Election Officers to ensure that these provisions are implemented effectively for the smooth conduct of the by-elections.